How To Become A Contracts Manager: What It Is and Career Path - Zippia (2024)

Key steps to become a contracts manager

1. Explore contracts manager education requirements

   The educational requirements for a contracts manager are typically a bachelor's degree. According to a study, 75% of contracts managers hold a bachelor's degree. The most common majors for this role are business, law, accounting, political science, and management. Some contracts managers also pursue certifications such as Certified Professional contracts manager, Certified Federal contracts manager, Project Management Professional, Certified Manager Certification, and Certified Purchasing Manager. Top schools for contracts management include Stanford University, University of Pennsylvania, Northwestern University, Maine Maritime Academy, and University of Southern California.

   Most common contracts manager degrees

   Bachelor's

   62.5

   %

   Master's

   14.9

   %

   Associate

   11.3

   %

2. Start to develop specific contracts manager skills

   A contracts manager must have strong analytical skills, be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously, and possess excellent interpersonal and team management skills. They are responsible for reviewing contracts, identifying potential problems, and providing contract risk assessment. They must also coordinate with government agencies to audit company compliance and monitor adherence to corporate conflict of interest policy. This role requires the ability to negotiate contracts, manage relationships with vendors and service providers, and ensure that all contracts comply with company policies and regulatory requirements.

   Skills	Percentages
   Contract Management	9.25%
   Contract Administration	5.53%
   Contract Terms	5.20%
   Project Management	4.57%
   Customer Service	4.28%

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3. Complete relevant contracts manager training and internships

   Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New contracts managers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a contracts manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real contracts manager resumes.

4. Research contracts manager duties and responsibilities

   A contracts manager's responsibilities vary widely. They manage litigation, review contract performance, prepare reports for senior management, and coordinate with HR representatives and business managers. They also maintain excellent organizational and analytical skills, hold signature authority, and ensure compliance with established company guidelines. They prepare ITAR registrations, provide interpretations of contracts, and conduct financial analysis. They also interface with government agencies, monitor adherence to corporate conflict of interest policy, and coordinate internal and external efforts in contract administration.

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   • Manage ISO requirements for sales and marketing.
   • Manage IDIQ contracts including task and delivery orders.
   • Manage RFI's and change orders through close out.
   • Manage all material for a non MRP driven program manually.

5. Prepare your contracts manager resume

   When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your contracts manager resume.

   You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a contracts manager resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

   Choose From 10+ Customizable Contracts Manager Resume templates

   Build a professional

   Contracts Manager

   resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume.

   Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Contracts Manager resume.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

6. Apply for contracts manager jobs

   Now it's time to start searching for a contracts manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

   1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
   2. Consult your professional network
   3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
   4. Watch out for job scams

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The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.